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HE - High Efficiency Detergent

By , About.com Guide

Photo by MML

Mary Marlowe Leverette

You may have noticed a new symbol on detergent bottles and boxes – HE. Now, that doesn’t mean it is for men only, It actually stands for High Efficiency.

These detergents are formulated to be used in HE washing machines. They are low-sudsing and quick dispersing for use in low water volume machines. HE detergents hold soil in suspension so it is not re-deposited onto clean clothes. Using a traditional laundry detergent will produce too many suds that will interfere with the tumbling action HE washers use to clean clothes.

Most pre-treat products are still normal to high sudsing and their use should be limited in HE washers. HE detergents can be used as a presoak or pre-treater.

Most HE washers have detergent dispensers. Read your washers care and use guide but most will accept either powder or liquid detergents. Never mix the two in the same dispenser because caking and clogging can occur.

As with all detergents, take time to read the label and guidelines on how much to use per load. More is not always better! If HE detergents are new to you, take time to read reviews of top rated HE detergents at ConsumerSearch .

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